Mr. Vergara made statements which are inaccurate in regards to the recycling bins which were vandalized at Kilili Beach park, to wit:
“…the office of the congressman, deciding swiftly to apply a new coat of paint…”
Please note that the Mariana Islands Nature Alliance, not the office of the congressman, is responsible for the ongoing repair and maintenance of all bins throughout the island. MINA is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to conserve and restore the array of habitats that sustains our natural biodiversity and heritage for today and tomorrow.
“Defacing public property on Saipan…”
The bins are part of MINA’s Marine Debris Prevention program, which aims to help reduce debris on Saipan’s shores and ocean and to help protect marine habitats that are at risk as a result.
The Marine Debris Prevention program is funded by a grant from NOAA, and provides bins at the following locations: Wing beach, Garapan Fishing Basin, 13 Fisherman monument, Kilili Park, Susupe Park, Sugar Dock, Laolao Dive site and Picnic area, and Obyan beach.
To learn more about the Marine Debris Prevention Program or to become a member of MINA, visit www.minapacific.org for more detailed information.
SAM SABLAN
MINA Executive Director
